Horripilate is a word that can be difficult to spell due to its unusual combination of sounds. The IPA phonetic transcription is "hɔrɪpɪleɪt", which reveals that it is pronounced with a hard "h" sound, followed by a short "o" sound, then a "r" sound and a short "i" sound. The last syllable contains a long "e" sound and a soft "t" sound. Horripilate means to shiver or have goosebumps, and is often used in a figurative sense to describe fear or disgust.
Horripilate is a verb that refers to the act of experiencing or causing the fine, involuntary, and localized erection of hairs on the body, typically due to fear, excitement, or cold. It can also be described as the sensation of one's skin becoming covered with goosebumps or having "gooseflesh." The term "horripilate" is derived from the Latin roots "horripilare" and "horripilatus," which mean to bristle or to cause the hair to stand on end.
When an individual experiences horripilation, it is commonly accompanied by a tingling and chilling sensation on the skin. This bodily response occurs as a result of the contraction of tiny muscles called arrector pili, which are connected to hair follicles. When these muscles contract, they pull the hair follicles upright, causing goosebumps to form on the surface of the skin. Often, horripilation is triggered by intense emotions like fear, surprise, awe, or pleasure.
Apart from its biological origin, horripilation can also be used metaphorically to describe a feeling of intense emotional or intellectual stimulation. In the context of literature or art, it signifies a profound, awe-inspiring experience that leaves one deeply moved or enthralled. Overall, horripilate encompasses the bodily and emotional response of hair standing on end, serving as an indicator of heightened sensitivity, excitement, or a significant impact on one's mind or senses.
The word "horripilate" comes from Latin "horripilāre", which is a combination of "horrere" (meaning "to tremble, to shudder") and "pilus" (meaning "hair"). "Horripilate" is derived from the Latin phrase "horrēre pilōs" which literally translates to "to stand the hair on end". The word entered the English language in the early 17th century and refers to the involuntary raising of hairs on the skin, usually due to fear, cold, or strong emotions.